Welcome to the Department of Transportation (DOT) News podcast. This week, we're diving into the latest developments from the DOT, which are set to have significant impacts on American citizens, businesses, and state and local governments.
The most significant headline this week comes from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who has taken action to rescind what he terms "woke" DEI policies and advance President Trump's economic agenda. On January 29, 2025, Secretary Duffy authorized a series of actions aimed at rolling back burdensome and costly regulations, restoring economic growth, and ensuring that all DOT policies align with the administration's priorities[2].
Key developments include the issuance of a new order and memorandum that outline significant policy shifts aimed at implementing several of the Trump Administration's executive orders. These actions signal a broad rollback of regulatory initiatives from the prior administration and a renewed focus on economic analysis and cost-benefit considerations in transportation policy[1].
One of the most notable changes is the directive to eliminate federal policies perceived as excessive regulatory overreach, including those related to climate change, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and gender identity policies. The DOT has been tasked with rescinding, canceling, and revoking all orders, rules, funding agreements, and policies enacted during the Biden Administration that reference these topics[1].
Additionally, the DOT will no longer use or consider the social cost of carbon estimates in its analyses, arguing that such calculations have been overly speculative and burdensome on businesses. Instead, projects will be evaluated based on factors such as noise reduction, water and soil quality, and economic stability, with a focus on impacts on families and local communities[1].
These changes will have significant implications for state and local governments, transportation agencies, and recipients of DOT funding. Entities that utilize DOT funding must now align their projects with new federal priorities, shifting away from climate- and equity-based initiatives toward economic and family-focused criteria[1].
As Secretary Duffy stated, "The American people deserve an efficient, safe, and pro-growth transportation system based on sound decision-making, not political ideologies. These actions will help us deliver on that promise."
For citizens and businesses looking to engage with these changes, it's important to note that the DOT's operating administrations must issue guidance to implement the Order through a notice-and-comment process, providing stakeholders with an opportunity to engage with the policy changes[1].
In terms of next steps, the DOT will submit a compliance report within six months outlining progress on these initiatives, providing transparency on the implementation process. Citizens can stay informed by following updates from the DOT and participating in the notice-and-comment process.
For more information, visit the Department of Transportation's website or contact Holland & Knight's Transportation and Infrastructure Policy Team. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of DOT News. Stay informed, and we'll see you next time.
